One in Adelphi, Maryland, one in Wildwood, Florida, one at the US National Arboretum with a grandfatherly interest in many more around the DC area (unless noted, pictures are taken the day of post)

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Good fall color on this giant White Oak, Quercus alba

This magnificent specimen stands at the intersection of Hickey Lane and Holly Spring Road, a favorite tree of Arboretum visitors and staff alike. The size of this individual suggests it's at least 200 years old. Across the region, I've seen a fair number of White Oaks this size cut and they''re usually just about that age. Why would so many trees date to the early years of the 18th Century?

About Me

I am the horticulturist for the Asian Collections at the US National Arboretum. Before entering public horticulture, I designed garden locally. Karen and I garden at our houses in Adelphi, Maryland and Wildwood, Florida. I'm nearing retirement and adjusting to the idea of leaving my gardens in Adelphi and at the Arboretum.